XS1100 Valve seals

[dspshemp]

I have removed the head from my 1980 XS1100SG, and removed the lifters and valves. I am trying to do the rebuild right. What is the correct way to remove and replace the valve stem seals? I already have the set of 8 seals, but have no idea what method is correct. Please help!!! Thanks! RB

[Ken Talbot]

If you're going to replace them, don't worry about a correct way to remove them. Just grab them 'em with a pair of needlenose pliers and give 'em a yank. When you get one off, you will see how the new ones will just pop on.

[dspshemp]

I was wondering if they just slip on, or if those springs have something to do with installation. Thanks for the reply!!

[xssiveone]

Just make sure you lube them with something, light grease or oil, before you install them. And watch the ends of the valve stems for rough spots. You don't want to put a nick or tear in the seal right off the start.

[Ken Talbot]

Here's a few photos to show what's up with valve stem seals:

[IMG]/forum/images/tips/20021213-dsc01962.jpg[/IMG]
The first shot shows the actual rubber seal encased within a metal collar. The small spring around the neck of the seal keeps it snug around the valve stem.

[IMG]/forum/images/tips/20021213-dsc01961.jpg[/IMG]
The second shot looks up from the bottom. The wider bottom section does not seal, rather it suppports the narrower neck and keeps it from collapsing downwards. You can see the narrower neck that actually does the work.

[IMG]/forum/images/tips/20021213-dsc01964.jpg[/IMG]
Finally, this last photo shows a slight ridge on the inside of the skirt of the seal near the bottom. That ridge locks into a groove at the top of the valve guide. Again, the shield contains the seal enough to maintain a snug fit so the whole assembly does not move up and down with the moving valve.

The new seal will just pop down into place with finger pressure.